Student Innes Lawson full of praise for Edinburgh City's team spirit

Innes Lawson netted a brace for Edinburgh City at Forfar recently. Picture: Tommy Lee.

The Citizens are currently seventh with four points from their opening five games ahead of a return to league action this weekend when they visit Clyde - the side that sits immediately below.

Student Lawson, who has just entered his fourth year of a sports science degree at Edinburgh University, came through Hibs' academy before stints with the Uni and Civil Service Strollers in the Lowland League.

The 21-year-old has found the net already this season scoring three goals, a solo effort in the 2-1 Premier Sports Cup defeat to Montrose and a double in the impressive 3-0 victory over Forfar at Station Park three weeks ago.

Lawson admits he is loving life under manager Michael McIndoe and is eager to keep his good start to the 2024/2025 campaign in full flow.

"There's a real togetherness in our dressing room," the youngster explained. "We just look at it game by game. A lot of teams have written us off which probably helps us going into matches, but we've got a lot of really good players. We want to finish as high as we can in the table and the gaffer has given us a really good platform to do that.

"It's good to have got off the mark already as that can always be on your mind as a striker. But I just want to score and get as many assists as I can."

Lawson insists learning his trade in Scottish football's fifth tier was the ideal platform to put himself back in the shop window following his disappointment at not being offered a contract at Easter Road.

"I must have racked up over 40 games a season for the Uni and Civil so it was great to get a taste of proper men's football," he said. "I learnt a lot and really enjoyed my time in the Lowland League. I think the three years I had in that division is probably the best thing that could have happened. I actually learnt a lot about myself as well and prepared me for the jump up to League Two.

"The gaffer actually came into the Uni while I was there for a couple of weeks so it was nice to hear that he'd kept an eye on my progress. So as soon as I knew he wanted to sign me, that I was in his plans, he wanted me to play and a chance to express myself, it was an easy decision.

"There is a wee jump in the level between the Lowland League and League Two, but not as big as some people say. It's a lot more direct and some of the teams are a lot more clinical. The different styles of play is really noticeable but it's a good test and I am enjoying it so far.

"I'm the kind of person that doesn't give up easily. I think not getting the contract with Hibs gave me that fire in the belly to go out and play. I just want to prove that I am good enough and I can get to the level that I want. I've always had that motivation ever since I started playing football. Every player has their own pathway. You just need to keep working hard and no can tell you what you can and can't do."